Safety

Preparing for a Safe Season

As the spring draws near, teams chomp at the bit to get back into boats. The winter drags and the urgency to take racing strokes mirrors the urgency of a sprint race. We’re desperate to get out there and put into action all our training. Unfortunately, every spring season we hear stories of crews that that put themselves in danger when they take to the water without proper preparation. All programs, new and old alike, should set aside the month prior to their launch date as preparation time to methodically prepare for a safe season.

Racing starts and selection become insignificant when a crew swamps in 40-degree waters.

Safety should be at the forefront of every coach’s mind.

Every motorboat should be in good working order when the season starts — its first job is as a safety vehicle.

Service outboard motors

Check gas lines

Check dock lines

Check running lights

Check automatic bilge pump(s)

Make sure batteries are charged

Update state registration stickers

Treat gas that has been sitting all winter with enzyme treatment

Insert drain plugs prior to putting launch into water

Each coaching launch must be outfitted with the proper safety equipment. Check to make sure your safety kits are in good working order:

Inspect life jackets and make sure there are enough for all athletes/spares a launch oversees during a practice.

Inspect tow/throw lines

Restock first aid kits

Check emergency whistle/air horn/flash light

Check space blankets

Each coach should also check to make sure he/she has the following in order prior to the first day on the water:

Personal flotation device (PFD). If it is the inflatable type, check to make sure the CO2 canister has not expired/discharged.

Emergency phone numbers for each athlete and coach

Megaphone

Working two-way radio

Boating-safety certification

Foul-weather gear

Organize a coaches’ meeting a week prior to the first water practice to make sure all coaches are well versed in the program’s safe operating procedures. A systematic and repeatable approach towards safety and operation will provide the guidance and reminders new and experienced coaches alike need to run practices the right way every day.

Discuss the program’s emergency plan and review who you call and in what order.